Rakul Preet Singh is all set to step into uncharted territory with her portrayal of Surpanakha in Nitesh Tiwari’s much-awaited Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi. Taking on the role of Ravana’s sister, the actor reveals what drew her to the character and the opportunity to explore a side of Surpanakha that goes beyond the conventional portrayal of her as an antagonist.

Speaking about the different interpretations of characters from the epic, Rakul says, “Every few years, you see a different interpretation and presentation of these characters, while keeping the essence rooted in the original text. As an actor, you only look at a character from that lens, that it's a character that has layers, that has the possibility and ability to shine through the film.”

For Rakul, it is precisely these layers that make Surpanakha an exciting character to portray. While she is often remembered primarily for her role in the events leading up to the larger conflict, the actor believes there is much more to discover about her personality and journey. “She was apparently the most beautiful woman of Lanka. She had an ego, but then she was layered. As an actor, it's fun to explore those layers,” she shares.

The role also gave Rakul an opportunity to discover facets of Surpanakha’s life that she had not encountered before. Talking about what intrigued her about the script, she says, “There was a lot about her that I didn't know. When I read the script, there was a lot about her life before and after that incident where her nose is chopped off by Lakshman.”

Elaborating on the depth of the character and her journey, Rakul adds, “What happens in Surpanakha's life and how does she meet, stumble upon Ram-there's a lot which I didn't know, which for me was new when I read the script, and which is why I liked it.”

With a character that allows her to explore Surpanakha’s life beyond a single defining incident, Rakul Preet Singh’s portrayal promises to bring a layered perspective to one of the most intriguing figures in the epic.